Kerfol
Kerfol is a horror story written by Edith Wharton in 1916.
The narrator of this tale wishes to buy the castle of Kerfol, in Brittany, so he decides to pay a visit to see it.
The castle, rather dilapidated and spooky looking, is empty when the narrator arrives. The guardian does not appear and only a group of dogs watch the narrator's movements.
Discover this short ghost story written by Edith Wharton in which the author takes the opportunity to explore other themes such as spousal abuse.
"You ought to buy it,” said my host; “its Just the place for a solitary-minded devil like you. And it would be rather worth while to own the most romantic house in Brittany. The present people are dead broke, and it’s going for a song—you ought to buy it."
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Public domain (US)·No sign-up·DRM-free·Real text, not scans
Copyright note. Kerfol by Edith Wharton is believed to be in the public domain in the United States only. It may still be copyrighted in other countries. If you are not in the United States, please check your local laws to ensure this eBook is in the public domain in your country before downloading Kerfol in PDF or EPUB.
- Pages
- 29
- Reading time
- 47 minutes
- Pace
- Intermediate
- First published
- 1916
- Language
- English
110 years later, still timely
Why Read Kerfol in 2026?
An old house, spectral dogs, and a testimony that uncoils jealousy into judgment. Wharton’s ghost story chills because its horror is human: control, fear, and the guilt that will not stay buried.
Today's connection
Read it as a parable about red flags and coercion dressed as care. Its folklore justice speaks to conversations on abuse, accountability, and the stories communities believe.
Gothic hush
Atmosphere that lingers.
Spectral dogs
Haunting with purpose.
Reckoning
Control meets consequence.
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About the author
Edith Wharton
Manners, money, and freedom drawn with surgical clarity and mercy.
